Testing anxiety can be a real struggle for elementary school students. Help your students conquer stress with these test anxiety tips.
It’s a common issue that can negatively affect a child’s academic performance and overall well-being.
However, as a teacher there are steps you can take to help alleviate their anxiety on exam days.
Here are some test anxiety tips to help students take the sting out of testing.
Test Anxiety Tip 1: Create a positive classroom environment.
Start by creating a positive and supportive classroom environment that promotes a sense of safety and well-being.
Students who feel comfortable and supported are more likely to perform well on exams.
I like to include games that encourage taking chances in a low-risk environment.
Test Anxiety Tip 2: Communicate and include parents.
Communication with parents is key in helping students overcome testing anxiety. Parents can provide valuable insights into their child’s behavior and help reinforce relaxation techniques at home.
In, the past I have sent home motivation letter templates the parents return to me before the big test.
Parents send these back with encouraging messages, and you should see the students’ faces when they read these.
The notes go on the students desks welcoming them on the day of the test; the kids are so excited the see these!
Test Anxiety Tip 3: Teach relaxation techniques.
Teach your students simple relaxation techniques they can used during tests, such as deep breathing exercises, visualization, and progressive muscle relaxation.
These techniques can help students calm their nerves and reduce anxiety. I’ll have students do breathing exercises with a couple of yoga poses.
Also, I like to provide a snack with an SEL message during a break or after the test.
Test Anxiety Tip 4: Provide opportunities to practice skills.
Practice tests can help students feel more confident and comfortable with the testing format and content.
I like to provide several opportunities for students to see the material so I created these student response booklets.
We use them for research projects, interactive journal notes, review, graphic organizers, and more. They cover all content branches in science.
Consider offering practice tests throughout the year to build stamina and help prepare students for exams.
By implementing these strategies, you can help your elementary school students overcome testing anxiety and perform their best on exams.
Remember, testing is just one part of their education, and their emotional well-being is just as important as their academic success.